In short: This is a big step up from an on-tarmac 1/2 marathon.In full: Am preparing for my first marathon in January. This was a very useful test of my fitness and a good way to run over 13.1mls for the first time. 'Train hard, race easy?' I hope so.Date of review: October 17, 2011

In short: I really enjoyed this race.In full: the scenery was stunning. I thought the course was marked well. Some of the hills were quite soul destroying but the marshalls were very encouraging. Only improvements would be to add 1 or 2 more water stations and I thought the start wasn't very safe (very narrow and uneven)- maybe start half a mile up on the road? I'm being picky though - it was great.Date of review: October 17, 2011

In short: Tougie, but a goodieIn full: Much better organisation this year, with more than enough markings compared to last years effort. Great views, good camaraderie, strong field and long enough to make it a properly memorable outing. One minor gripe would be no water stations for about an hour after mile 4 (we had to cadge some water from a friendly marshalls personal supply!), but that won't stop me being back next year. Great that it's on a Saturday morning, too. Well done!Ps. Great medal!Date of review: October 16, 2011

In short: An undiscovered gemIn full: Excellent off road race with stunning scenery. Very well marshalled compared to last year and a well marked course. Glad to see that the flour on the ground had been replaced by signs! Special mention to the marshals who were cheery, helpful and supportive. For such a stunning, challenging race am surprised that the entry isn't larger. Will be back next year to tackle those hills!Date of review: October 16, 2011

In short: A good off-road jaunt in the cotswoldsIn full: An interesting race, the chip timing seemed a bit over the top, for an off-road race precise timing is not normally the first thing you think of, but perhaps we three races going on virtually simultaneously then perhaps it was necessary. Could have been better marked in place, could have done with more water stations - a gap between 4ish miles and 11ish miles without drinks not ideal, especially as it was a tad warm today! All in all a good fun run!Date of review: October 15, 2011

In short: A classic off road Cotswolds runIn full: This race showed off some of our finest English countryside as we ran through pretty valleys and up some sharp hills that made my eyes water like a Kate Winslett oscar speech. The weather conditions were perfect and the marshalling efficient and friendly. The organisers must have taken to heart the comments last year about route finding because the route was very well marked with signs and pink/white tapeat almost every point of potential indecision. This is important because the runners on the long route tend to get well spread. So, well done Hogweed Trotters and thank you for a memorable event.Date of review: October 15, 2011